GIRLS' SOCCER: Greencastle-Antrim poised for another solid season

GREENCASTLE — Considering the success of last season, expectations are understandably at an all-time high for the Greencastle-Antrim girls' varsity soccer team.

A year ago, the Blue Devils set a school record with 15 wins while finishing alone atop the Mid-Penn Colonial Division standings behind an 11-1 record in league play.

After earning the No. 2 seed in the District 3-AA playoffs, G-A was bounced from the postseason earlier than expected, having its memorable campaign come to an unforeseen close in the first round against Brandywine Heights.

Now, with nine starters returning, the Blue Devils are looking to take the next step this fall.

"We had a wonderful season last year, but our plan is to top that," G-A head coach Greg Cole said. "The loss at home to Brandywine Heights left a bitter taste in all of our mouths."

Despite losing only one starter to graduation, filling the void left by Sharon Juarez will be no easy feat. Juarez led the team in both goals (12) and assists (11) last season, recognized as one of the area's premiere talents.

Now, that role will be shared between Alicia Crider and Tabi Rudy, with the likes of Nikki Garns, Ally Rudy, Jane Herman and Hannah Crist adding to G-A's offensive capabilities.

"Sharon will be missed," Cole explained. "Alicia and Tabi will be fulfilling the forward duties for us. Both are quick and physical."

Garns and fellow senior Kasey Sweitzer have emerged as team leaders, with Alyssa Denkovich returning as the versatile anchor of the defensive backfield.

"The girls understand their individual roles," Cole said. "That has helped our communication and ability to transition during the run of play. We scored 70 times last season, while giving up only 24, but we'd still like to improve that."

Freshman Jenay Faulkner, who's currently in a position battle with Nadajah Vickers, is expected to make and immediate impact in goal with Abbey Denkovich, Katie Gelsinger, Alana Ebbitt and Meghan Hirneisen all projected to be significant contributors throughout the year.

"We are blessed with speed and athleticism across the pitch," Cole said. "Our expectations are high and we intend to continue our recent success."